Things To Do
in Cittanova
Cittanova is a quiet hill town in Calabria, Italy, perched with sweeping views over olive groves and the Ionian coastline. Its historic center blends medieval lanes, small churches, and cozy trattorie that showcase local cooking. The town hosts a friendly, tight-knit community and a weekly market where produce and crafts reflect Calabrian flavors.
Visitors can enjoy relaxed day trips to nearby coastlines and the rugged Aspromonte foothills for a balanced taste of inland and sea life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cittanova and settle into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the charming streets, soaking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to grab a cappuccino at a local café to start your day.
After lunch at a traditional trattoria, explore the local shops and boutiques for unique artisan products. Visit the Church of San Domenico, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, and appreciate its intricate details. Spend some time interacting with the friendly locals to get a taste of everyday life in Cittanova.
Enjoy dinner at a piazza-side restaurant where you can indulge in Calabrian cuisine. As night falls, take a leisurely walk through the town, admiring the illuminated streets and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Cap off the night with a gelato from a renowned local gelateria.
Begin your day with a visit to the Museo Civico, where you can discover the rich history and culture of Cittanova and the surrounding region. Engage with the fascinating exhibits and gain insights into the local heritage. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café before heading out on your adventure.
In the afternoon, explore the nearby archaeological site of the ancient city of Medma, where you can see the remnants of this former settlement. Guided tours provide a deep dive into its historical significance and the artifacts recovered. Return to Cittanova for a mid-afternoon coffee break at one of the many charming cafés.
For dinner, select a rustic restaurant that specializes in homemade pastas and local wines. Mingle with fellow travelers as you savor the regional specialties, enjoying the lively ambiance. After dinner, find a spot with a view to enjoy the sunset over the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-3 |
| 🛏️One-night stay in a budget hotel | $60-100 |
| 🚆1-day local transit pass | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and authentic Calabrian atmosphere
- Excellent local food and scenic hill-country views
- Easy day trips to coast and mountains
- Compact town center is walkable and atmospheric
- Limited public transportation on some routes
- Fewer large-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal business hours; some services can be reduced in winter
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Cittanova
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming central square with historic facades and sweeping views over olive groves toward the Ionian Sea—great at golden hour.
A panoramic spot on the hillside where terraced fields and the coastline meet, ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Narrow passageways and stairways that reveal texture, color, and local life; best captured with a lightweight lens.
Early-morning light on local churches creates soft shadows and quiet streets perfect for architectural detail.
Food in Cittanova
Cittanova Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soft, fiery spreadable salami made with smoked pork and Calabrian peppers; best tasted on crusty bread or melted into pasta sauces.
Must-Try!
Hand-cut pasta with hearty tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil sauce; a comforting Calabrian staple.
Crisp fried pork bits served with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a dash of chili pepper.
Lightly cooked zucchini with garlic, olive oil, and lemon — a fresh, seasonal vegetarian option.
Desserts or liqueurs flavored with bergamot, a regional citrus distinctive to Calabria.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively spot to sample fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and regional snacks; great for pitching a seasonal taste at reasonable prices.
Small stalls offering fried snacks, panini, and local sweets, perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple polite greeting such as 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' goes a long way; handshake is common when meeting someone new.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; be quiet and respectful in sacred spaces.
It's customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting a meal; saying 'grazie' after assistance is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Cittanova
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; a small per-document or 5-10% for attentive service in restaurants is common. In casual cafes, rounding up the bill is sufficient.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; some rural venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming olive trees make outdoor walking pleasant; good for photography and hillside hikes before the heat of summer.
Hot days with refreshing coastal breezes; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan coastal day trips to escape inland heat.
Harvest time brings abundant produce at markets; the scenery turns rich with oranges and greens; great for food lovers and photography.
Cool but typically mild; occasional rain; fewer crowds, more intimate dining experiences, and atmospheric light for moody photography.
Cittanova at Night
Hiking in Cittanova
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of scenic trails through forested slopes, offering panoramic vistas of the Ionian coast and Valle del Faggio.
Moderate hikes that link the hills to nearby bays, providing sea views and dramatic cliffs.
Gentle day hikes that combine nature with agricultural landscapes and opportunities to sample regional produce.
Airports
How to reach Cittanova by plane.
Major regional hub offering connections to domestic and some international destinations; about 1.5–2 hours by road.
Smaller airport serving regional flights; typically closer by road than SUF but with fewer international options.
Another regional option offering limited services; longer drive to Cittanova but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families and long-time residents with strong ties to agriculture and traditional crafts.
A smaller but growing group who commute to nearby towns for work or study, attracted by the quiet setting.
Diaspora connections in other parts of Italy and abroad occasionally visit for family ties and heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the dominant sport in the region, with local clubs and community matches commonly attended on weekends.
Local teams and community courts provide opportunities for pickup games and family-friendly outings.
Scenic coastal roads and hillside routes attract cyclists seeking varied terrain and views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cittanova.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Calabrian vegetarian options are plentiful in pasta, tomato-based dishes, vegetables, and cheeses; request olive oil instead of animal fats and ask for mushroom or eggplant-forward dishes.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free needs; look for pasta alternatives (rice-based or corn-based) and clearly labeled gluten-free dishes; carrying small snacks is handy when away from dedicated gluten-free venues.